A Week Living On An Inheritance In Washington, D.C.

The background

I am a 25-year-old law student living in Washington, D.C. My financial situation is unconventional for someone my age. I have a net worth of $558,000, which is almost entirely the result of an inheritance from my father's estate. While that number looks massive on paper, I try to live a relatively modest life. I have a dedicated savings account for law school expenses, roughly $35,000 a year, and a separate buffer for living expenses. My rent is $1,000 a month with utilities included, which is a steal for D.C.

Growing up, my relationship with money was complicated. My mother is very frugal, and even now, she manages some of my accounts and did my taxes this year. We had a bit of a back and forth about paying a professional tax preparer, but given my freelance, foreign, and investment income, it was necessary. I ended up with a $350 refund, which felt like a small win.

A week of comfort spending

Monday started with a low-key tea at a bookstore in Dupont Circle ($5). I met up with law school friends, but I am not much of a drinker. Later, I bailed on a loud bar event after just 20 minutes. I have a low tolerance for crowded venues, so I opted for a $30 Lyft home. It felt like a splurge, but my peace of mind is worth the price tag.

Tuesday was my big grocery haul at Trader Joe's. I spent $75.48 on staples like salmon, chicken, and plenty of produce. I actually had to go back later that evening for breadcrumbs and lemons I forgot ($3.23). I also saw a $134.97 charge for my Seed probiotics. I know it is expensive, but I recently switched to a bulk plan to save about $10 a month. I am very intentional about my health, especially managing PMDD and depression.

Wednesday was about future fun. I bought a festival ticket through a reseller for $108.25, which included insurance and my share of a future Lyft. I transferred the money from my "fun money" account to cover the credit card charge. I am diligent about paying off my cards multiple times a month.

The health investment

By Thursday, my PMDD symptoms were hitting hard. I ran to Safeway for pads and Advil ($9.98). The lines were soul-crushing, turning a 20-minute errand into an hour-long ordeal. To cheer myself up, I used my LexisNexis research points to get a $0 Amazon order for a new yoga mat and dry shampoo. It is the little victories that keep me going during 1L.

Saturday was a long day of volunteering and studying. I spent $3.80 on a hibiscus blood orange tea and $3.70 on emergency vending machine Cheez-Its when I realized I forgot my lunch. I grabbed a quick $11 pita at Roti before heading back to campus. I also Venmo’d $10 for mutual aid. I want to do more of this once I have a steady salary, but for now, I contribute what I can.

Sunday was for reflection and movement. I finally committed to a yoga subscription using my tax refund money ($142.76). My therapist mentioned that heat therapy can help with depression, so I attended a hot yoga class and rented a towel ($2). It is one of the few things that makes me feel truly present in my body.

What the week revealed

This week showed me that while I have the security of my inheritance, I still feel the daily pressures of being a student. I am constantly balancing the desire to be frugal with the necessity of spending on my mental and physical health. My inheritance is a safety net, but I am working hard to build a career where I can eventually support myself and my mother independently.